Drive Safely Work Week Should Start with Tire Safety

    WASHINGTON, Sept. 10 Motorists should start "Drive Safely
Work Week" right by checking their tires for proper inflation and for signs of
uneven or excessive treadwear, according to the Rubber Manufacturers
Association.

    The Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS), an organization of
government and industry groups, is sponsoring "Drive Safely to Work Week" to
increase awareness of driver safety.  The Rubber Manufacturers Association's
"Be Tire Smart - Play Your PART" program emphasizes tire care and safety to
reduce the risk of tire failure.

    "RMA certainly endorses all efforts to raise driver awareness of auto and
highway safety," said Donald B. Shea, RMA president and CEO.  "Consumers need
to check their tires' inflation pressure once a month and before every long
trip, including the spare.  Getting in the habit of performing this fast,
simple maintenance task can help consumers to maximize vehicle safety."

    Shea also noted that motorists can make sure they have the minimum
required tread depth (1/16th inch) on their tires by using a Lincoln penny.
"Simply insert the penny head first into the tread groove," he said.  "If you
can see all of Lincoln's head, it's time for a new tire."
 
   A national survey sponsored by RMA last year found that nearly three-
quarters of drivers scored "D" or worse on a basic tire safety quiz.  RMA's
tire safety education program is designed to provide motorists with basic tire
care information.

    "If all drivers follow our tire care tips, they not only will help keep
themselves and their families safe, but they also will get longer wear from
their tires and maximize their vehicle's fuel economy," Shea said.

    The "Be Tire Smart - Play Your PART" program emphasizes four basic tire
care and maintenance tips:  Pressure, Alignment, Rotation and Tread.